Baqaei: The IAEA Board of Governors’ Resolution Is a Stain on Its Sponsors
WANA (Nov 23) – Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson strongly criticized the anti-Iran resolution adopted by the IAEA Board of Governors, saying Tehran needs no mediator to work with the Agency and that the real problem lies in “U.S. pressure and dictated language.”
The Board of Governors’ Resolution and Iran–IAEA Relations
Esmail Baqaei described the latest Board of Governors’ resolution as “inconsistent with the Agency’s established practice,” arguing that the text, by ignoring the root of the dispute—“the unlawful attacks by the United States and Israel on Iran’s nuclear facilities”—only makes the situation more complicated.
He stressed that “there is no deadlock between Iran and the Agency,” and noted that Tehran continues its cooperation under its NPT commitments. According to him, pressure from the three European states rendered “the Cairo agreement invalid.”
Tehran’s Reaction to the New IAEA Resolution: “The Board of Governors’ Decision Is Unjustified and Illegal”
WANA (Nov 21) – In an official statement, Iran’s Foreign Ministry described the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Board of Governors’ newly adopted resolution on the country’s nuclear program as “illegal, unjustified, and driven by political pressure,” stressing that the Agency has no authority to reinstate Security Council resolutions that have already been closed. […]
Iran’s Response to the Resolution and Nuclear Decision-Making
The Foreign Ministry spokesperson said Tehran’s first step was to declare the “Cairo agreement null and void,” adding that other decisions will be made “at the country’s highest strategic levels.” He emphasized that Iran’s guiding principle is to safeguard its rights and interests under the Non-Proliferation Treaty.
Cairo Agreement between Iran and IAEA. Social media/ WANA News Agency
Developments in Gaza and Israel’s Conduct
Referring to the killing of 24 civilians in Gaza over the past day, Baqaei accused Israel of “absolute disregard for restraints in committing crimes.” He cited reports of cluster-bomb use in southern Lebanon and the harvesting of organs from Palestinian detainees as examples of “this regime’s disregard for international law,” warning that failure to restrain such behavior could have global consequences.
Iran–Saudi Relations and Rejection of Mediation Between Tehran and Washington
Addressing the Iranian president’s letter to the Saudi crown prince, Baqaei explained that the message dealt “solely with bilateral issues and the Hajj.” He reiterated that the main obstacle to negotiations is “the U.S.’s dictatorial approach,” and that talk of mediation is irrelevant.
Alireza Rashidian, head of Iran’s Hajj and Pilgrimage Organization, delivered President Pezeshkian’s written message. Social media/ WANA News Agency
Regional Dynamics: Afghanistan and Pakistan
Baqaei said Iran is continuing its consultations with countries such as Russia and Turkey to ease tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan, emphasizing that regional security is of vital importance to Iran and that efforts will proceed within a regional framework.
Foreign Relations, International Cases, and Specific Issues
He stated that Iran–Russia nuclear cooperation is moving forward “with strength.”
Baqaei called U.S. measures against Venezuela “in violation of the UN Charter,” saying Washington is using counter-narcotics as a pretext to pressure a sovereign state.
In response to another question, he confirmed that the cargo of the Talara vessel has been released along with the ship itself.
IRGC Confirms Seizure of Violating Tanker in the Sea of Oman
WANA (Nov 15) – Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy has confirmed the seizure of the Talara oil tanker in the Sea of Oman, stating that the operation was carried out strictly under a judicial order and aimed at preventing the illegal removal of Iran’s national assets — not as a retaliatory move against […]
Araghchi’s Trip to The Hague and Follow-Up on Chemical Weapons Cases
The spokesperson said Iran’s foreign minister will travel to the Netherlands to attend a meeting of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons, during which Iran will highlight the chemical attacks carried out against its citizens.
He added that Tehran has a specific demand from Germany and is seeking access to the rulings issued in cases related to the arming of Saddam Hussein’s regime.
Iran’s Right to Peaceful Nuclear Energy
Commenting on Washington’s warnings about a possible resumption of enrichment, Baqaei said Iran is considering “all options” to safeguard its interests, and that pressure or unlawful actions will not dissuade Tehran from its legitimate rights.
He stressed that suspending part of Iran’s activities does not mean relinquishing its legal rights, saying: “As an NPT member, we are entitled to the peaceful use of nuclear energy.”
People walk past a billboard with a picture of nuclear scientists killed in Israeli strikes and Iranian centrifuges, on a street in Tehran, Iran August 29, 2025. Majid Asgaripour/WANA (West Asia News Agency)
Developments in Sudan and Tehran’s Position
The Foreign Ministry spokesperson described the situation in Sudan as troubling, saying the United States—despite claiming to seek a solution—has itself been “one of the factors behind the tensions of recent years.”
He emphasized that any interference by third parties in Sudan’s internal affairs is “harmful,” and argued that “Sudanese–Sudanese dialogue” should be allowed to shape the country’s future.
Sudan. WANA News Agency. Social media / WANA News Agency
The United States Has Left No Basis for Trust
Responding to remarks by the U.S. deputy secretary of state about “armed negotiations” between Iran and the United States, Baqaei said the issue is not the wording but Washington’s conduct over the past decade—including withdrawal from the JCPOA, refusal to return to the agreement, and attacks against Iran—which has “left no room for trust.”
Iran–Lebanon Engagement
Regarding the Lebanese foreign minister’s readiness to hold talks with Araghchi, Baqaei said relations between Tehran and Beirut are “longstanding, stable, and grounded in mutual respect,” and essentially require no elaboration.
He noted that Iran’s foreign minister responded positively while making clear that Iran “does not interfere in Lebanon’s internal affairs.” Baqaei pointed to recent high-level contacts—including the visit of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council secretary to Beirut—as evidence of growing engagement.
Iran Welcomes Dialogue with Lebanon
WANA (Nov 22) – The Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran emphasized that Iran does not interfere in Lebanon’s internal affairs, but welcomes any dialogue aimed at advancing bilateral relations between Iran and Lebanon. Seyed Abbas Araghchi, Iran’s Foreign Minister, wrote in Arabic on his account on the social platform […]
Relations with Saudi Arabia and the Riyadh–Washington Arms Deal
In response to a question about Saudi Arabia’s new military agreement with the United States, the spokesperson said Tehran enjoys a “positive and growing relationship with Saudi Arabia and other regional countries,” adding that the region’s shared concern is “Israel’s warmongering behavior.”
He stressed that regional states should rely on endogenous capacities to address threats.
The Cairo Agreement Is No Longer a Basis for Understanding
Baqaei reiterated that the “Cairo agreement is no longer implementable” and cannot serve as a basis for cooperation between Iran and the IAEA, arguing that the other parties hindered the positive momentum between the two sides.
Sanctions Will Not Alter Iran’s Determination
Responding to the U.S. president’s recent threat to impose Russia-style sanctions on Iran, the Foreign Ministry spokesperson said Iran has been facing “daily sanction packages” from Washington for nearly five decades.
He acknowledged that sanctions are harmful but stressed that they “cannot in any way undermine Iran’s determination to defend its dignity and rights.” According to him, Washington pursues the same policy against multiple other countries as well.
Iran: Evidence Ready to Pursue Trump’s Admission of Direct Involvement
WANA (Nov 18) – An Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister announced that there is sufficient evidence to pursue legal action regarding U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent admission of direct involvement in the military operation against Iran. During a meeting of Iran’s Supreme Judicial Council on Monday, November 17, 2025, Chief Justice Mohseni-Ejei referred to Trump’s […]
Iran: U.S. Arms Transfers to Taiwan Are Unacceptable
In response to a question from a Chinese journalist about new U.S. arms deliveries to Taiwan, the spokesperson said the move is “condemned,” adding that the “One-China principle,” reflected in numerous UN resolutions, must be respected by all governments.
Rejecting what he called “U.S. meddling in East Asia,” he added that Washington has now become “the greatest threat to regional peace and stability.”
Tehran: No Ceasefire Exists in Gaza
Asked about Germany’s decision to lift restrictions on sending weapons to Israel, the spokesperson said “there is no ceasefire in Gaza,” noting that around 350 people have been killed over the past month according to official figures.
He described Germany’s three-month-old restrictions as “symbolic,” and argued that countries supplying arms to Israel must understand they are considered “partners in the crimes” and “will be held accountable.”
Iran Issues 11-Point Statement on New UN Security Council Resolution Regarding Gaza
WANA (Nov 19) – The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran issued an 11-point statement on Tuesday night expressing its serious concerns over the provisions of United Nations Security Council Resolution 2803 on Gaza. In the statement—centered on criticism of certain elements of the resolution and an emphasis on the […]
Iran: Iraq’s Stability Strengthens Regional Security
Responding to a question regarding the meeting between Mohsen Hakim and Iran’s foreign minister, the spokesperson said Tehran–Baghdad ties are built on “trust and mutual respect,” and that Iraq’s electoral process is an internal matter.
He added that Iraq’s stability and security directly benefit both Iran and the region, and that recent meetings with Iraqi figures fit within ongoing efforts to deepen bilateral engagement.
Iraq’s National Security Advisor, Qassem al-Araji, met Ali Larijani, Secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council on Monday, October 20, 2025. Social media/ WANA News Agency
No Plans for a Meeting with the European Troika in the Netherlands
Regarding a possible meeting between Iran’s foreign minister and the E3 on the sidelines of the OPCW conference, the spokesperson said no such session has been scheduled.
He noted that Araghchi will travel to The Hague to attend the annual conference and will “naturally” hold meetings with officials present at the gathering.
Negotiating with the United States? “As Long as Washington Treats Negotiations as Dictation, Dialogue Cannot Take Shape”
In response to a question about Iran–U.S. talks, the spokesperson said Washington merely claims to seek negotiations but does not commit to their requirements, calling this behavior “a posture.”
He referred to “attacks on Iran during diplomatic discussions” and added: “Safeguarding Iran’s interests is the foremost principle in any negotiation, but the other side simply does not believe in negotiations.”
The mural at Enghelab (Revolution) Square in Tehran on the day of the funeral ceremony for the martyrs of the Israeli regime’s attack, featuring images of the martyrs of this war. Social media/ WANA News Agency
Iran–Lebanon Engagement Will Continue
Reacting to a report about a meeting between Ali Larijani and the Lebanese president, the spokesperson said some media outlets are seeking to spread misinformation through “hype and exaggeration.”
He emphasized that Tehran–Beirut relations are grounded in mutual respect and that high-level meetings will take place whenever necessary.
Iran: U.S. Actions Against Venezuela Violate International Law
Answering a question about a possible U.S. military readiness toward Venezuela, the spokesperson said Washington’s provocative behavior “violates international norms,” adding that silence in the face of such actions is “unacceptable.”
He described these measures as “bullying against the sovereignty of an independent nation,” and urged the UN Security Council and the Secretary-General to clearly voice their opposition.
Regarding the situation of Iranian diplomats in Caracas, he said Iran’s embassy is active, “necessary security arrangements” have been taken, and interactions with Venezuela’s government are ongoing.
Venezuela Thanks Iran for Warning on U.S. Military Moves
WANA (Nov 15) – Venezuela’s Foreign Minister has expressed gratitude to Iran for warning about the potential consequences of increased U.S. military presence in the Caribbean, calling it a threat to international peace and security and praising Iran’s support for Venezuela’s national sovereignty. In a message posted on his Telegram channel, Venezuelan Foreign Minister […]
Iran: We Appreciate Russia’s Position on Nuclear Cooperation
Responding to Russia’s remarks regarding continued nuclear cooperation with Iran, the Foreign Ministry spokesperson said that under Resolution 2231, once its duration has expired, Iran—like any non-nuclear-weapon state—is free to engage in peaceful nuclear cooperation with other countries.
He stressed that Russia’s stance is a continuation of Moscow’s principled approach in the face of attempts by some European states to revive the revoked UN Security Council resolutions, adding: “We appreciate this position.”
Rosatom: Construction of New Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant Units Is Ongoing
WANA (Nov 17) – The CEO of Russia’s state nuclear corporation Rosatom announced on Monday that construction of the second and third units of Iran’s Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant is progressing. Alexey Likhachev, Rosatom’s Director General, told Russia’s Rossiya-1 TV channel that the company is currently building new units at the Bushehr facility. […]
Tehran: Regional Countries Will Not Fall into the Trap of U.S. Policies
Reacting to anti-Iran remarks made by the U.S. president during his meeting with the Saudi crown prince, the spokesperson said such comments reflect Washington’s longstanding policy of sowing discord among regional states.
He noted that countries in the region “are fully aware” that U.S. and Israeli actions against Iran have undermined international peace and security, and warned that without measures to rein in Israel’s aggressive posture, the situation will only escalate.
He added that the United States is “the logistical, military, and political supporter of Israel” and therefore cannot claim the role of an impartial mediator.
Iran’s Analysis of Crown Prince MBS’s U.S. Visit
WANA (Nov 21) – Iran’s view of Saudi Arabia is that of an older, wiser brother toward a younger and gullible one — a brother who is easily deceived by outsiders and squanders all his resources in exchange for their empty promises. Iran’s policies over the past decades aimed at distancing this younger brother […]
Washington’s Claims About Negotiations with Iran Lack Seriousness
When asked about the U.S. president’s statement that Washington is “close to an agreement with Tehran,” the spokesperson said U.S. behavior shows these claims lack seriousness.
He said Washington either “does not understand negotiation” or equates negotiation with “dictation.”
According to him, such statements can only be judged by actual U.S. conduct, and “there is no goodwill in these claims.”
Talks with Turkey Cover a Range of Issues, Including Syria and Developments in Gaza
In response to a question regarding Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan’s phone call after the joint Turkish–Syrian delegation visit to the United States, the spokesperson said discussions with neighboring states always include a wide array of bilateral and regional matters.
He explained that in Iran’s ongoing consultations with Turkey, issues related to regional security and stability—including the Syria file, the situation in Gaza, developments in Palestine and Lebanon, as well as matters connected to Iran’s nuclear file—are regularly reviewed.
People attend a rally in support of the people of Gaza, after Friday prayers in Tehran, Iran, October 10, 2025. Majid Asgaripour/WANA (West Asia News Agency)
Iran: The International Community Is Awakening to the Crimes in Gaza
Asked about the newly elected mayor of New York who referred to Israel’s actions in Gaza as “genocide,” the spokesperson said such remarks amount to “recognizing a stark reality,” and that any responsible country should openly acknowledge this truth.
He added that a new wave of awareness is visible across Western societies; despite restrictions, large crowds in European and Western capitals are taking to the streets to protest the “killings in Gaza.”
He described this trend as “an important sign of the global community waking up ” to what is unfolding in the region.
